Havrix 1440 (Hepatitis A Virus (Inactivated ) Adsorbed On Aluminium Hydroxide Hydrated Produced On Human Diploid)

Havrix 1440 is indicated for the prevention of hepatitis A virus infection in individuals who have not been previously immunized. The vaccine is administered intramuscularly and can be given as a single dose or as a two‑dose series, providing long‑lasting protection.

• Adults and children aged 12 months and older
• Travelers to regions where hepatitis A is endemic
• Outbreak control in communities or institutions
• Persons with chronic liver disease
• Healthcare workers at risk of exposure
• Pre‑exposure prophylaxis for laboratory personnel handling hepatitis A virus

Common adverse reactions to Havrix 1440 are generally mild, occur within a few days of vaccination, and resolve without medical intervention; serious events are rare but require prompt evaluation.

Common

• Pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site, usually lasting 1–3 days.
• Low‑grade fever (temperature <38.5 °C) within 24 hours after injection.
• Headache or mild fatigue that resolves within a few days.
• Nausea or mild muscle aches reported by some recipients.

Serious

• Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) with hives, airway swelling, or circulatory symptoms.
• Guillain‑Barré syndrome, a rare autoimmune neuropathy reported in isolated cases.
• High fever (≥39 °C) persisting more than 48 hours or neurological signs.

Precautions for Havrix 1440 focus on patient history, immune status, and monitoring for adverse reactions.

• Verify no previous severe allergic reaction to any hepatitis A vaccine or its components.
• Defer vaccination in individuals with acute moderate or severe illness until recovery.
• Use with caution in persons with known bleeding disorders; apply pressure after injection.
• Pregnant women may receive the vaccine when benefits outweigh potential risks (category B).
• Immunocompromised patients may have reduced antibody response; consider post‑vaccination serology.
• Individuals with chronic liver disease should be vaccinated to prevent severe infection.

Havrix 1440 has limited known drug interactions, but certain agents may affect vaccine response or safety.

Avoid

• Concomitant administration of immunoglobulins or blood products that may neutralize the vaccine antigen.

Use with caution

• Live vaccines administered within 4 weeks before or after Havrix 1440; spacing may be required.
• Immunosuppressive therapy (e.g., corticosteroids, chemotherapy) may diminish antibody production.
• Antipyretics taken prophylactically may mask low‑grade fever, though they do not affect efficacy.
• Chronic alcohol abuse may impair immune response to the vaccine.